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Pet Insurance for English Toy Terrier

Find out all about English Toy Terriers and their common health conditions, and then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on July 11th, 2024       

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Price range

$1,000–$3,800

Height

25cm - 30cm

Weight

2.5kg - 3.5kg

Personality

Energetic, lively, spirited

Coat length

Short, smooth

Exercise needs

Moderate

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

12 - 13 years

English Toy Terrier

Overview

The English Toy Terrier is a tiny and spirited breed of terrier originating from the mid-north of England. The breed has been known since the 16th Century, when they were used for hunting and for flushing out rats. For this reason, their small size was valued, as hunters would keep them in their pockets until they were needed to dive down rat or fox holes. In 1920 the English Kennel Club split them into two distinct types by size. The larger type became known as the Manchester Terrier, and the smaller breed as the Miniature Black and Tan Terrier. In 1960 the name was changed to the English Toy Terrier, the name they are known by today. 

These compact, well-proportioned little terriers have a short dense coat which is always black and tan. They have erect, pointed ears that give them an inquisitive look. They have a larger-than-life personality, tons of energy and lots of affection for their family. They are highly adaptable and make excellent companions for individuals or families living in smaller homes, as long as they are given sufficient mental stimulation. Toy Terriers are eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.  

Common diseases and conditions of English Toy Terriers

  • Patellar Luxation: English Toy Terriers may experience patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates. 
  • PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy): Progressive Retinal Atrophy is an inherited eye disorder causing gradual vision loss. Initial signs include night blindness, leading to reduced day vision. 
  • Von Willebrand Disease – an inherited bleeding disorder in dogs in which the blood doesn’t clot properly.

Breed-specific issues:

The small size of this breed makes them delicate and prone to injury, so they should be handled with care. Older children should not play too rough with them as they can easily break bones. They may be reserved around strangers, but are loyal to their families, and can suffer separation anxiety if left alone.  

How much does pet insurance cost for an English Toy Terrier?

Most Australians can expect to pay between $20 and $60 a month for pet insurance. There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your dog, including the following:

  • Age: The older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because senior dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.    
  • Type of insurance you choose:  There are three basic types of pet insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type of insurance available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most.  
  • The policy annual limit: Each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.   
  • Sub-limits: In addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub-limits that apply to the policy, for example, a $300 sub-limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.   
  • Benefit percentage: Pet insurance does not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies, up to 90% for the best policies available.   
  • Excess amount: This is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, whilst others do.  
  • Any add-ons you choose: It’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.  
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about English Toy Terriers

Do English Toy Terriers bark a lot?

Yes, English Toy Terriers are alert little dogs and may bark to alert their owners to any perceived threats or strangers, or to express joy or excitement. Proper early training and socialisation can help manage their barking tendencies. 

Do English Toy Terriers require a lot of exercise?

While they have moderate energy levels, English Toy Terriers do need daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Due to their small size, short walks and interactive play sessions are usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs. 

 
 
Are English Toy Terriers suitable for families with young children and babies?

Yes, English Toy Terriers can make excellent family pets, especially for families with young children or older children who understand how to handle small dogs. Their social and adaptable nature allows them to thrive in family environments. 

Are English Toy Terriers generally a healthy breed?

English Toy Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues. While not all individuals will experience these problems, some common health concerns in English Toy Terriers include patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation) and PRA, an inherited eye disorder. Regular vet check-ups, a well-balanced diet, proper exercise, and responsible breeding practices can help mitigate these risks and ensure your English Toy Terrier enjoys a long and healthy life. 

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Whether you're buying for your dog or cat and whether they're big or small, you can compare pet insurance policies tailored to your furry friend's needs from Savvy's panel of trusted Australian insurers. Grab a free, no-obligation quote today!
English Toy Terrier

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